Tis Me Michelle

It’s all the rage. I kept hearing about it everywhere I turned, and to be honest, I was nervous it was going to be all hype. I knew it was a book adaptation, but I hadn’t read the series, so I really only knew what I had been hearing. A smutty, gay, ice hockey series.

I didn’t anticipate I would like it as much as I did. Since I didn’t read the books, I can’t comment on accuracy. What I can speak to is how endearing I found the characters. It’s the first show in quite a while where I really loved the characters. The chemistry with this cast is absolutely fantastic. I liked the contrast between Ilya Rozanov (Connor Storrie) and Shane Hollandar (Hudson Williams). It was a bit of opposites attract, on top of that steamy, heated rivalry. Yes, it’s very sexy, and that is entertaining in its own right. The way the characters come into themselves and become comfortable with who they are was what really stuck out to me.

All of the main characters hold so much in, afraid of what could happen if people find out about their sexuality. Between the fear of coming out in a professional sports league and the fear of being condemned in your homeland, there is so much weight carried. The physical connection is instant, but a true connection builds over the years. Finding each other makes them feel seen, and they become more confident in what they want.

It also shows how having someone pave the way really does give people a lifeline to do it themselves. SPOILER ALERT: Scott Hunter (not to be confused with one of my TV crushes, Shawn Hunter) does the unthinkable by coming out publicly. That gives Ilya and Shane a push to give themselves a real shot at a relationship, vs that hot, hot situationship. And the show inspired a real-life former hockey player to come out. This is why art is so important. This is why representation matters.

I loved both of the characters’ vulnerability. I myself resonated with the Shane character. I’m no MVP at anything, but feeling that weight of keeping things together all the time. Being on the shy side, in a way, you have friends and are part of the party, but keep more to yourself and are a bit awkward. From what I’ve read up on, he’s autistic, and I find that another layer of great representation. And makes me kind of wonder if I am, I’m sure I fall somewhere on the spectrum. Even his relationship with his parents, who I believe are his managers, at least his mom. The way he is just going through the motions of what is being asked of him, because it’s what he is supposed to do. I feel that. Sometimes I don’t even feel like I know who I am, but rather just a version of who I think I’m supposed to be. And of course, that yearning to be loved and have a relationship, while being sensitive and nervous. He wanted someone who took charge, to be the “bottom,” if you will. As the captain of the team, the one who has to hold it all together, I totally understand wanting someone who leads. The infamous ‘we didn’t even kiss’ almost-text really struck a chord with me. Because if I were in that situation, that’s exactly what would be going through my mind. Oh, and the way Ilya makes fun of Shane for being so boring, that’s exactly how I think anyone I wound up dating would think of me.

The pacing of the show was interesting because it spans quite a few years, I believe, in line with the book. I wouldn’t have minded more of everything. And it had a good pace, which kept me watching and engaged. Shoutout to the Canadians. I think they did this adaptation justice. As someone who grew up on Degrassi—the Canadians—they go there! The right balance of sexy scenes, relationship building, and just enough sportballs. Not sure how much of the book series was covered this season, but I will definitely tune in to Season 2.

Rating: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ✨

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ + chef’s kiss to Connor Storrie (Ilya)’s ass. Like a Greek God statue.